Category: Fashion

Best Pieces from Fall 2018 Haute Couture

The Best Looks from Fall 2018 Couture Week

From July 1 to July 5, top designers released their couture collections on the runway; below are my favorite picks from the week!

Maison Margiela

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Galliano exemplifies detail with his colorful couture collection, using innovative fabrics and elaborate stitching, which was a focus in every piece. The outerwear pieces are unforgettable with the patterns and textures, showing how the designer is exploring new trends and is ready to make a statement this autumn season. Tip: Margiela includes textures such as feathers and belts, which you can purchase at M&J for your own collection!

Chanel

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Chanel’s couture always is mind-blowing, right down to every bead sewn on to their signature tweed blazers. Lagerfeld used the signature Chanel tweed to create other silhouettes that are embellished to express even more of a luxury look. The buttons on the long coats also add the perfect amount of detail to the signature pieces, making the garments unique without overdoing it. Use beaded appliqués on your designs to recreate this unforgettable look just like Karl Lagerfeld!

Givenchy

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Waight Keller, creative director of Givenchy, constructed a collection to honor Givenchy’s passing focusing on spin off’s of his original “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” inspired designs. The collection consists of black and white base pieces with pops of color from different textures. Givenchy modernized their designs, but stuck with the seasons popular use of beading and feathers, as well as fabrics such as velvet and satin.

Elie Saab

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I have never been so invested in an Elie Saab collection before this one. Just like any woman, I am dumbfounded by long, gorgeous evening gowns, which is the epitome of this show. The embellishments over the sheer fabrics made the dresses pop, as well as the large appliqués that accented the designs. The crystals that were sewn on individually were definitely easy on the eyes as well. I recommend adding crystals to anything you want to spice up, using the garments from this show as inspiration!

Christian Dior

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While I am a fan of over the top haute couture, I think Dior’s subdued approach looked beautiful. The color palette was quite soft, and the tone of the collection was more serious than playful, which is perfect to contrast the other collections and make it stand out in a different way. The elaborate designs make up for the lack of embellishment, as seen above in the sleeves of the green coat. The plunging neckline in my favorite navy piece gives the dress enough shape that fancy fabric would potentially have made the garment too flashy. The basic fabrics and colors may not seem like traditional couture, Dior definitely hit hard with this collection.

Valentino

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The Valentino show was the last of the Haute Couture week this year and I understand why: the best was saved for last. Valentino hasn’t always been my favorite designer, but this collection immediately peaked my interest and rethink my opinion because it is the definition of couture. Pierpaolo Piccioli chose colorful fabrics, elaborate designs, AND lavish trims to create the perfect runway collection. My favorite piece was the last because of the bright mustard color paired with the larger-than-life dress design. If you’re new to haute couture, check out the Valentino show to get the all around effect.

Get the Look: Trending and Popular Decorative Pillows

DIY Trendy Decorative Pillows

I recently rented an apartment and all I wanted was for it to be super stylish and modern. The only problem was I didn’t have the budget to splurge on both furniture and decor, so I had to find a way to cut back. That was when I began to face my throw pillow dilemma… I wanted some trendy pillows but, not for the price. Then I realized I could DIY old pillows to look just like them! Today, I am going to give you some tips on how to recreate four of my favorite luxury throw pillows. The best part is all you need is our different trims and products and pillows you may already have (or can buy for a low price on Amazon)!

Embroidered Pillows

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This beautiful embroidered bird pillow with fringe is so easy to recreate with a plain throw pillow and just a few supplies. All you need to easily recreate this at home is an embroidered bird patch, floral patches, and some tassels for the corners. Iron on the patches and glue/sew the tassels onto the pillow or pillow cover. You are good to go with a new pillow that looks like a million bucks without having to hurt your wallet!

Pom Poms

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PomPoms are a great way to add flair to any home decor piece, especially throw pillows. The pillow covers on the right retail for about $60, which is too expensive for my taste. To recreate a pompom pillow, use pompom trim and line it along the perimeter. To be even more creative, you can use the trim in a geometric pattern to give design to the front of the pillow.

Fringe Pillows

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Adding fringe to a pillow is simpler than you think! Just take a plain pillow and any color fringe trim you like. Then, sew it around the outside and voila! You have a fun pillow to spice up any couch, recliner, or love seat!

Fur

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Fur pillows give a luxurious look to any piece of furniture you place them on, which is why they are definitely one of the most expensive throws out there. Thankfully, M&J carries fur trims so you can make your own! A fur border on any pillow adds such an elegant aspect to any room. Just sew fur trim to the perimeter of the pillow to add fur to your decor while not overspending.

Get The Look: Paris Fashion Week Menswear Runway Trends

Recreate the newest runway trends from Paris Fashion Week – Menswear for less using products from M&J Trimming!

Vetements – Spikes

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Vetements jumps on the “dad shoe” trend with their new sneakers featured in the Spring 2019 Menswear runway show. They feature large oversized sneakers with embellishments such as paint and large metal spikes. Recreate this look by applying metal spikes to any pair of bulky sneakers and create your own unique pair of trendy dad shoes!

Acne Studios – Fringe

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Acne Studios presents fringe in their Spring 2019 Menswear show, part of Paris Fashion Week as well. Fringe is an easy way to make any piece stand out which Acne proved in their designs. Add fringe to the bottom of any piece of outerwear and if you are feeling extra adventurous, add fringe to the seam of your favorite top.

Dior Homme – Embroidery

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The collection presented by Dior Homme consisted of basic pieces embellished with detail. The white vinyl coat pictured is adorned with beautiful embroidered floral designs, which you can achieve on your own basics using floral patches. Glue or iron on a collection of your favorite patches onto any piece of outerwear or denim to achieve a look that is elegant and timeless.

Balmain – Buttons

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Balmain’s Spring 2019 collection is a bit more toned down than their usual designs, but still features iconic detail. The coats featured are embellished with heavy metal buttons, which can make any jacket look more luxurious. To up-cycle your old coat, add metal buttons to keep it looking new and on trend, which it definitely will be with this addition.

Louis Vuitton – Chains

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Virgil Abloh, replacement for Kim Jones as creative director for Louis Vuitton, nailed it with his new menswear collection. To revamp the traditional Louis Vuitton brand, he added large plastic chains to his bags in order to make the luxury brand more fresh and appealing to the younger demographic. To follow this trend, add a plastic chain to any handbag or accessory to revamp your wardrobe!

Ann Demeulemeester – Ribbon

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Almost every piece in Demeulemeester’s menswear line featured interesting trim, with the most common being ribbon. She styles ribbon around necklines and draping off of the ends of sleeves. To update any shirt, sew your favorite style of ribbon onto neckline or sleeves so it hangs down, like in the collection. No matter your gender, you can rock ribbon an any of your preexisting garments to stay trendy without breaking the bank.

DIY: Beaded and Sequined Mother’s Day Gifts

Mother’s Day is almost upon us! Struggling to find the perfect gift for mom, something that’s handmade yet worthy of her? We’ve got you. These super simple, super stylish DIYs will have mom smiling and you looking like the best daughter/son.

Flowered Sun Hat

This easy DIY will take you all of 10 minutes. Add a little glitz and glam to a sun hat by adding some beaded flower appliques.

What you’ll need:

A Hat

These Floral Beaded Appliques

E6000 Glue

Some Tape

1: Add some glue to the back of the applique, making sure you get all the edges.

2: Place the patch where you’d like it and press it down.

3: Put some tape over it to keep it in place while it dries.

4: Let dry for a few hours, wrap it up and give it to mom!

 

Embellished Loafers

Give mom a pair of comfy loafers to slip into, that she can wear out to dinner too.

What you’ll need:

A Pair of Loafers

An Iron

A Cotton Cloth or Teflon Sheet

2 x This Beaded Flower Applique

1: Place the patch where you want it.

2: Cover the patch with a thin cotton cloth or Teflon sheet and iron on high heat. Hold the iron down for 20 second intervals, repeating as necessary. Don’t use steam.

3: Repeat on the other shoe.

4: Gift them to mom and put a spring in her step 😉

 

Sequin/Beaded Flower Bag

All moms have that one bag that they throw everything in. They always manage to have snacks and bandaids and just about anything you might need in a sticky situation. Like wet wipes. Treat her with a clutch that she can take out when she’s off duty.

What you’ll need:

A Plain Clutch or Crossbody Bag

E6000 Glue

This Flower Beaded Patch

1: Apply glue to the back of the patch, making sure you get all the edges.

2: Place the patch on the bag and press down.

3: For added measure, place a heavy object over it and let it dry for a few hours.

Now you just have to gift it to mom and see her try to fit all the “essentials” into it.

 

Spring/Summer 2018: Get The Look

I’m secretly hoping that by dressing for Spring, I’m willing it to come quicker. It’s April and I want to cast off the blues, grays and blacks and bust out the yellows, pinks and reds. There are so many fun trends to try out this season and I’ve rounded up 5 of my favorite ones. You can easily incorporate these trends into your wardrobe with some mini DIYs. I hope you find some inspiration in here to brighten up your Spring/Summer wardrobe.

Pink + Red

Although this combination is timeless, it packs a punch every time it comes around. The contrast is just beautiful and can easily be achieved with either accessories, separates or jewelry. Designers like Dolce and Gabbana, Ferragamo and Stella McCartney are embracing this yummy palette. Does it remind anyone of candy?

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Here’s a few ideas on how you can try this trend out for yourself:
  • Some pink buttons on a red shirt or vice versa.
  • Red and pink sew-on jewels on a blouse would look stunning.
  • A red fur pom pom on a pink handbag or vice versa

Birds of a Feather

Feathers are a whimsical touch to any garment or accessory. They add a bit of dramatic flair or in the case of Alberta Ferreti and Proenza a Schouler, a LOT of dramatic flair.

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Here’s a few ideas on how you can try this trend out for yourself:
  • Add some feathers around an ankle strap on your strappy sandals.
  • A wispy feather trim around the neckline or sleeves is just the thing.
  • Long feather earrings to add to a simple outfit.

Sequin-Land

Sparkle is abundant on the runways this season. Sequins made an appearance time and time again, upping the glam quotient. It’s clear that sequins are no longer restricted to the holidays!

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Here’s a few ideas on how you can try this trend out for yourself:
  • Glue on sequins to a pair of heels for some instant glam.
  • Sew on large paillettes to a tank top to create a going out outfit.
  • Embellish a clutch for a night out by gluing some sequins on it.

Bling-Bling

Sequins aren’t the only ones having a moment right now. I don’t think we’ll ever tire of bedazzling things. Rhinestones and crystals have made their way into several collections on the runway this season. Everyone from Saint Laurent to Gabbana is adding some sparkle to their lines.

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Here’s a few ideas on how you can try this trend out for yourself:
  • Take a page out of Dolce and Gabbana’s book and add some crystals to your sunglasses.
  • Add rhinestones to a pair of thigh-highs like Saint Laurent.
  • Add some sew-on jewels to your light spring overcoat to make it a style statement.

Fringe Benefits

I personally love the flappers from the twenties with their beaded shift dresses and drawn-on panty hose. Fringe was an essential back then and apparently in S/S 18 too. Whether it’s Chanel’s subtle fringe on their classic tweed suits or Stella McCartney’s macrame fringe bag, we can’t get enough of this trend.

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Here’s a few ideas on how you can try this trend out for yourself:
  • Make a pair of statement earrings with a 6″ fringe to add some oomph to any outfit.
  • Glue some fringe onto the front of a small bag for a statement piece.

    Let us know in the comments if you tried any of these trends out! Happy Spring!

Fall/Winter 2017: Get The Look

Fashion moves at a lightning pace, and every season has a new wave of stand out trends. While it’s great to get style inspiration from the runway, there’s nothing like wearing the hip looks yourself. We’ve created the M&J Trimming Fashion Trend DIY Guide to share the highlights of each season and ways to make them yours without breaking the bank. This bi-annual review will feature the runway’s hottest trends, the designers and details that really stick out, and DIY fashion projects to create your own pieces.

For the Fall/Winter line-up, the biggest fashion trends in 2017 walked out in sheer ensembles and dark floral. This fall and winter, we’re all about being cozy and romantic-chic. The trends that caught our eye were those flirty details that added a textured accent to a warm ensemble.

Collar Pop

Gucci blew us away with their flirtatious details and embroidered extravagance. Never did fall look so fun then the parties happening on the runway look collars.  We couldn’t decide which look we liked more, so we have DIY projects for all our favorites.

Floral Collar Accent

We love the simplicity of this look and how easy it is to DIY! M&J has an incredible selection of floral iron-on patches ( this one is perfect! ), and all you need is a collared shirt! Update your office look or add a romantic accent like a silk flower to your favorite button-up for class!

Fur-forward Trim

We loved this Gucci look from head to toe, but that collar popping fur trim is just what our old fall coat needed! A detachable fur collar trim is perfect for a quick and easy coat collar upgrade.

 

Materials:

Some quick steps:

  1. Shop our great collection of fur trims to find the perfect accent collar for last winter’s jacket and measure out the length of your pre-existing collar plus two inches.
  2. Cut your trim and create a nice clean edge by folding and gluing the hand sewing the edges down.
  3. Sew the hook and eyes, one in the center of the fur trim and one on each side. 

Birds of a Feather

Calvin Klein and Marchesa showed us the way to rock feather trim for that wintry soiree this season. From Alexander McQueen’s dark magic dresses to Prada’s fringed skirts and Balenciaga’s love affair with ostrich plumes, feathers just might be the season’s fashion hit.

Feather Fringe sleeve cuffs

Following Marchesa’s lead, we’re adding short feather fringe to our cute short-sleeved dresses this fall for an extra bit of flair. These feather trims in moody dark collars are the perfect accent to a velvety ensemble. 

Materials:
Quick Steps:
  1. Sew your feather cuffs to the sleeves with a sewing machine or by hand
  2. To give your feather trim accent a polished look, sew or glue the layer of velvet ribbon along the edge of the sleeve.
  3. You’re done and ready to party this holiday season!

Moody Dark Floral

The runway was full of moody dark floral this season, from Gucci’s Russian Doll ensemble to Naeem Khan’s jacquard trim. Brightly colored rosettes on a dark, velvet background are popping up all over the runway. 

Dark Floral Belt Cover

We loved how Anna Sui constructed her big floral belts and will show you how to recreate that dark floral feel for a belt you already own! Want an extra challenge? Make your own velvet belt from scratch using our incredible collection of buckles and knots!

Materials:
A few quick steps:
  1. Big belts are perfect to accentuate the waist, so use your waist measurement for this project. Fold your piece of velvet in half, right side in, create a rectangle on the fold that is your waist + 3” by 4 inches wide.
  2. After you’ve cut out your folded rectangle, iron on the interfacing close to the fold. The interfacing will make the velvet nice and sturdy.
  3. Using a sewing machine, sew all but one short side closed.
  4. Turn right side out, and sew up the last edge by hand.
  5. Now measure out a few velvet loops and center them on the “back” of your velvet panel. There should at least be three, one in the center and two 2” from either side.
  6. Now measure out your jacquard so that it can wrap 1” around the back of your belt cover and glue it in place and you’re down!

Take your belt and slide it through the loops and you now have a poppy (and rose) wide belt accent to add dramatic shape to your fall wardrobe.

Dazzle ‘em Boots

Chanel and Saint Laurent are leading the pack in glitter high-rise boots. While we would die to strut out in Oscar de la Renta’s Swarovski rosette-encrusted boots, it’s easier than we thought to turn up the retro glam on last year’s pair of suede shoes. We love the look of adding this alluring rhinestone trim to the back seam of our high-rising suede boots, or these Swarovski flat back crystals to your chunky boot heals for a little extra glamor. We also have these cute rosette rhinestones, too, if you’re feeling extra fancy!

For all of these dazzling looks, all you need is E6000 Glue with a precision tip. If you’re thinking of gluing individual rhinestones to the shoe, we also recommend using these tweezers for ease.

Keep checking this page for the latest in DIY Fashion Trends and how-to’s.  Always check the M&J Fashion page for the latest off the runway looks and easy ways to make them your own!

DIY: Gucci Inspired Embroidered Fall Coat

Gucci has been bringing its A-game these last few seasons with downright decadent designs. They’ve used an amalgam of textures, fabrics and embroidery to create eclectic but wearable collections. I personally love the slew of tigers in various forms on everything from dresses to coats. The only thing that isn’t easy on the eyes or the wallet is their price tag. I like the idea of owing beautiful things without having to empty my bank account, so I made this Gucci Inspired Coat that’s way more affordable and super easy to create.

Gucci’s Embroidered Coats

 

Our Version

Price does not include cost of the coat.

 

What you’ll need: 

All these beautiful patches:

A coat

An iron

A thin cotton cloth to cover the patches while you iron

 

1

Place patches how you want them and take a picture so you know where everything goes. I stuck to the body of the coat but you can get creative with the back and the sleeves. If you want to keep it simple, you can just add flowers to the lapel.

 

2

Set the iron to high with no steam. Place a thin cotton cloth or teflon sheet over the patch and hold the iron down for 20 seconds. Repeat if necessary. Do this with all the patches.

 

And guess what? That’s it. You’re done. Yup, it’s that simple.

*This item is currently unavailable. Check out our full selection of floral patches.

DIY: Sugar Skull Inspired Halloween Mask

Guys. It’s October. If you haven’t started planning your costume already, you better start now. Halloween is fast approaching, and I want to help you out with a DIY mask to get you started on your costume. I’ve put together a fairly simple tutorial to make a Day of the Dead mask, inspired by the sugar skulls. I’m sure you’ve all seen awesome Day of the Dead themed costumes the last couple of years and now it’s time to make your own.

Did You Know: Day of the Dead is a Mexican holiday where people believe that the spirits of their loved ones are reunited with them for two days following Halloween.

What you’ll need:

Flatback Rhinestones

Sew-on Jewels in Different Shapes

3D Flower Patches

Magna-Tac Glue

A Mask

A Rhinestone Applicator

 

1

I improvised the placement of the stones for the most part. That’s what was most fun about this DIY. However, if you need a little more guidance, you can use a pencil to lightly sketch out a design on your mask.

2

Start by applying a thin layer of glue to the area you want to place the stones. I started around the eyes. Then, using a rhinestone applicator, pick up the stone and place it where you want it. Repeat till you’re done with that section.

3

I kept going with the designs, using different colors and shapes to create dimension.

4

When you’re done with the stones, take the flower patches and glue each one, facing forward, to the back of the mask. I added one on the front in the center just to give it some depth.
A good substitute for these patches would be red silk roses. 

That’s it, you’re done! Pair this with a corset, tulle skirt and some lace gloves to complete the look.

 

DIY: Art Deco Earrings

Art deco marks a time of guilty pleasures and luxury. Think modern geometric architecture and flapper dresses. Think Gatsby. I’ve always loved the 20s and wanted to channel that into a pair of earrings that are modern yet reminiscent of more glamorous times. If you love Art Deco as much as I do you’re going to love these earring DIYs.

Color Block Leather/Vinyl Earrings

What you’ll need:

Leather/Vinyl Trim in different colors. We used these:

Pink

Green

Black

Scissors

Pliers

Jump Rings

Slide Connectors

Ear Wire Hooks

Card Stock for Template (A ruler would work too)

1

Using a template or a ruler I marked and cut out 3/4″ wide strips from the leather/vinyl. I did this with the pink and green.

 

2

Then, using one of the cut trims as a measurement, I marked the width on the black vinyl. I then cut out a square and marked a triangle on it. Cut out the triangle.

3

Then, I lay each strip on top of the other so they’re overlapping about a 1/4″. I then use a sharp pin to poke holes on either end. I repeat this for the rest of the pieces.

4

Next, I put a jump ring through the holes to connect the pieces. Repeat this with all of the pieces.

5

Lastly, I used a slide connector, usually used on necklaces and bracelets, on the top piece. I used a pair of pliers to clamp it down. I like the hammered effect on the gold so I didn’t mind the dents the pliers made. I then added the earring hook to the loop on top.

And you’re done!

Neutral Color Block Earrings

What you’ll need:

3 colors of leather or vinyl. We used these:

Black

Brown

Tan

Scissors

Earring Hooks

Jump Rings

Magna-tac

Card Stock for Templates

1

Using card stock, cut out two circles of different sizes. I used a 2 inch and 1 inch circle. Using the templates I cut out 2 black circles with the 2″ template and 2 brown circles with the 1″ template. I also cut out a 1.5 inch square out of the tan. This makes one earring so double it for 2.

2

Apply a thin layer of Magna-tac to the black circle and glue it in half. Repeat it with the other black circle.

3

Apply Magna-tac to the brown circles. Glue one black semi circle a 3/8″ in. Glue the second on a 3/8″ from the bottom. Then apply the second brown circle on top.

4

Cut a little fringe out of the tan square and glue it to the center.

5

Poke a hole through the top with a pin or sharp object. Put a jump ring through it and attach the earring hook before closing it.

Ta da!

Halloween Masquerade Inspiration

Getting ready to attend a masquerade ball this Halloween? Well, you’re in good company. These parties have been around since the 15th century and are still going strong today. Originally happening during the festive time before Lent and celebrating marriages and life events, today the masked ball is about socializing and having fun, meeting new people, and even concealing your identity to be able to free your inhibitions and party more freely.

Originating in Italy, masquerade balls have spread rapidly to most of the world. Each country and culture that has adopted this celebration has added their own spin and fashion to these festivals, culminating in beautiful masks ranging from modern to traditional and showcasing the country’s heritage and roots. This Halloween, you’ll see masks ranging from traditional Venetian, to lace, feathers and jewels, super hero and tv characters, animals both real and mystical, Day of the Dead, classic Halloween icons and even painted on masks made entirely of jewels and make up. Whatever look you’re going for, we’ll help you get inspired with some of our favorite masks of 2017. Masquerade balls are one age-old tradition that we can’t wait to partake in each year!

First up, we have Venetian masks from the Carnival of Venice, a traditional celebration held each year and filled with some of the world’s most elaborate masks. These masks are characteristically full faced and monochromatic, with matching feathers, jewels and trim.

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Next up is a mask of one of the year’s most amazing super heroes. Who can forget Gal Gadot’s performance in Wonder Woman? If you’re looking to dress up as your favorite sci-fi role model, look no further than this stunning mask filled with eye popping gold and sleek, full bodied, dark feathers.

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As far as mystical creatures are concerned, unicorns rank as the very best. It would be utterly cool if these legendary beasts came to life. In the meantime, show your love with this easy to make unicorn mask complete with horn and hair in soft pastel colors.

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The beauty of the traditional lace mask is that it will go with any outfit and is as elegant a mask as it gets. It is chic and dressy and won’t take the focus away from your killer dress. Add rhinestones and assorted jewels to the mask for a hint of sparkle and sophistication.

This offbeat Minnie Mouse lace mask appeared in a 2005 Vogue but it’s still so stylish and relevant.

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When considering a Halloween mask, be sure to also consider Halloween make up and nontraditional masks that utilize jewels and sequins to paint the face in an unrecognizable, dazzling work of art. Here are some favorites. Maison Margiela is known for the full face rhinestone masks.

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Halloween tends to bring out a bit of our darker sides. It’s just starting to get cold and you can feel the first chill of winter everywhere around you. It’s pitch black outside and you’re pressed against a throng of people at a parade or a party. This is the best atmosphere for a dark, alluring, raven mask. You’ll blend in to your surroundings elegantly and seamlessly.

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Day of the Dead, or Dia de los Muertos, is a celebration honoring the dead. What better look for your spooky masquerade ball then an otherworldly dalliance with the dead and perhaps, the undead? This look is heavily centered around a red and black floral and lace headband and ornate, hand drawn designs and drawings on the mask itself.

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Classic masks should not be overlooked when choosing your masquerade look. These masks can easily be DIYed with feathers, rhinestones and perhaps beads or flowers. This is the best look if you want to customize your mask and make sure that it will be truly one of a kind. The possibilities are endless but here are a couple of ideas to get you started.

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This Halloween season, it is our responsibility to continue the 600 year old tradition of attending masquerade balls like our predecessors have done for generations. This is the one night a year that you can revel in a new identity and embrace the mystery around you without any reservations. Wherever this night takes you, put on a mask and party in style.